Starting Your Car in the Cold

Are you tired of asking yourself, “Why won’t my car start in the cold?”, like a lot of Traverse City drivers this winter? It’s not uncommon to have trouble starting your car when the temperatures drop, but there are a few things you can do to make sure your car starts up smoothly. Our service department is here to help, so we’ll explain below why a car won’t start when it’s cold but starts when it’s warm. We’ll also list some tips on how to cold start a car. What is a cold start? Keep reading to find out!

What is a Cold Start?

So, what is a cold start? A cold start is when you start your car’s engine while the ambient temperature is lower than your engine’s operating temperature. In cold weather like we get during Kalkaska winters, your engine has to work harder to start because more fuel is required, and the engine must idle higher than it would otherwise. If the engine doesn’t idle high enough, excess gas could clog the ignition system, causing the engine to stall.

Why Won’t My Car Start When It’s Cold?

There are a few reasons why your car won’t start when it’s cold, but starts when warm. Here are some possible culprits to check out if your car won’t start in the cold:

• Battery isn’t designed for the cold: In regions with harsh winters, like the Bellaire area, batteries are designed to handle the cold. However, in warmer regions, batteries may not be equipped to handle the cold, and you may need to replace it.
• Low or dirty oil: Oil needs to flow smoothly through the engine to start in cold weather. Dirty or low oil can make it difficult for your car to start in the cold.
• Moisture in the fuel line: Moisture in the fuel line can freeze in the winter, causing a clog. This can happen more commonly in diesel engines.
• Clogged carburetor: Older cars may have carburetors, which can get clogged and make it difficult to start in the cold.

How to Cold Start a Car

If your car won’t start in the cold, follow these steps:

How to Cold Start a Car

• Turn off all electrical systems to conserve battery power.
• Dip the clutch while turning the ignition (if you have a manual transmission).
• Check the battery posts and cable connectors for corrosion.
• Check the oil level and top it off if it’s low.

The Service Pros at Serra Volkswagen of Traverse City Can Help

If you’re still asking yourself, “Why won’t my car start in the cold?”, schedule an appointment with us. Our trained experts can diagnose the problem and get you back on the road quickly. And if you found this guide to be helpful, check out our guides on how long tires should last and whether you should use regular or premium gas for your vehicle. We’re just a short trip away from Lake City, so drop by or give us a call today.